Laurel Police Department swears in two new officers

The Laurel Police Department held swearing in ceremonies on Thursday for Justin Clifton and Adam Jones in Laurel City Hall.

In attendance were family and friends as well as officers from the department.Both men bring with them previous military experience.

Along with his military background in the Marine Corp, Clifton comes from the Gulfport Police Department where he served for two years.

"I appreciate Laurel for bringing me back home," said Clifton "When I got out of the Marine Corp I did what I had to do to get my foot in the door but I always wanted to come back here and I'm just glad I'm back."

Jasper county native Adam Jones brings experience from the military much of which was serving as military police.

This is my career, this is what I chose when I was in high school and I stuck with it ever since." Jones said, "I'm just here to help to serve my community."

According to Laurel Police Chief, Tyrone Stewart, this will being the total number of officers for the department to 53. He also says there are two other individuals going through the hiring process which will bring them up to a full force of 55 officers.

"With the hiring of these two young men, both of them are United States veterans, so when they came through the door, they already had the discipline and willing to work and we're proud to hire them." said Stewart.

Both officers will be placed in the patrol division of the department.